Richland names new chief of police. He will be the 3rd in five years
The city of Richland has found its next chief of police.
Richland City Manager Jon Amundson announced Wednesday evening that Woodburn, Ore. Police Chief Martin Pilcher will be the next leader of the Richland Police Department, contingent on a background check.
The move was announced one day shy of the one-year anniversary of embattled former Chief Brigit Clary’s announcing her retirement.
Pilcher has more than 20 years in law enforcement and currently oversees a department of 40 sworn police officers, three community service officers, and about 7 professional staff members, according to the news release.
He has named police chief in Woodburn in 2021 after serving as deputy chief since 2018.
“I am honored and excited to be selected to serve as the Chief of Police for Richland,” said Marty Pilcher. “My goal is to work collaboratively with the community, the department, and other city agencies to ensure that Richland remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone. I look forward to meeting with residents and working together to address our community’s needs.”
He spent most of his career with the Elk Grove Police Department in Elk Grove, Calif. and has also worked as an internal affairs investigator for the Portland Police Bureau.
He has a master’s in organizational leadership from Norwich University and is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police from the Police Executive Research Forum.
Amundson expressed gratitude to everyone who participated in the selection process, from the other candidates to members of the public who attended candidate forums and the staff who helped with interview panels.
“We are excited to welcome Martin Pilcher as our new Chief of Police,” Amundson said. “His extensive experience and dedication to community-oriented policing make him an excellent fit for our city. We are confident that his leadership will continue to strengthen our police department and support our commitment to public safety.”
The background investigation is expected to be complete within a month. It will encompass a comprehensive review of Pilcher’s professional and personal history.
Interim chief Craig Meidl has been the acting chief since April 2024.
The other two finalists were Kent Police Commander Chris Mills and Deputy Chief for Eastern Washington University Police Sean O’Laughlin.
This story was originally published September 11, 2024 at 5:51 PM.
